A looming shortage of information technology recruits is worrying the Australian Government, but providing opportunities for Central Queensland students who can now get paid while learning on the job.

According to Friday's Financial Review (p70, Oct 21), figures presented at a Sydney seminar organised by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) indicated an alarming drop in the number of students enrolling in university IT courses, together with reduced interest in science and mathematics courses in schools.

Dean of Informatics & Communication at CQU, Professor Kevin Tickle said IT enrolments at CQU were lagging behind the opportunities for graduates, but his Faculty was trying to turn the trend with the new Bachelor of Information Co-op program.

Professor Tickle said the BIT Co-op was deisgned to produce work-ready IT graduates through partnerships between CQU and employers.

Employers were now able to secure the services of bright, highly-motivated, high-achieving students, with a view to accessing students for employment following graduation. CQU BIT (Co-op) students can benefit greatly from an industry placement. Mixing theory with practical experience helps students to better appreciate the relevance of academic study.